Jet pump losing prime

[rbucs99]

My mother has a well built in 1961 with a jet pump set up that keeps losing prime.

The pressure switch is a 30/50, and when the pump is primed, it will pump up to 50 but then shut off and drop right to 38psi.

With the shutoff valve to the house shut off, the well drops about 3psi per hour.

There are no visible leaks above ground.

I am pretty sure that we have some sort of leak under ground, or the check valve is stuck.

One problem is that the well is in an enclosed shed. I also seem to recall working on the well with my uncle when I was really young, and if my memory serves me right, he may have used sections of PVC for the down pipe, but I am not 100% sure of that.

Here is a picture of the well casing adapter, which looks like it may be tough to get open based on those rusty bolts.

Can someone give me an idea of what I need to do to pull the well pipe? I know I need to get the casing adapter off, and then start pulling the pipe and I guess use something to hold the pipe up while I am working. I am also assuming I would cut the PVC in sections as I pull it out, and then cut out the couplers and re-use as much pipe as I can when reassembling to keep the cost down.

I am also not sure if I will be looking at a single pipe with injector/leathers or a dual pipe with the newer style injector.

 

[Valveman]

Most likely the cup leathers are worn and leaking. But it could also be a hole in the casing or a bad foot valve. Won't know until you pull it up and have a look. Glue pipe will need to be cut. Threaded pipes can be unscrewed on the way out.

 

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[rbucs99]

What is the best way to pull the pipe? Will I need a jack? Something to hold it while cutting or unscrewing sections? Anything else I need to prepare for?

Once I pull the pipe, what should I look for to determine what the problem is? Do I just replace everything while I have the pipe out?

Also, for the top cap/adapter should I leave the two pipes connected to the adapter, cut them near the pump (pvc) and just un-bolt the two lower bolts at the floor to pull the pipe?

 

[Valveman]

Unbolt and remove the pipes. Pour a cup of bleach down the outer pipe and let it sit for a few hours. This helps loosen the leathers. Then yes, most likely use a jack until the leathers come lose, then you can pull easier.